Mobile phone and electronics retailers have been given a big thumbs down from consumers, claiming the top four spots on the latest NSW Fair Trading Complaints Register.
Samsung Electronics topped the list with 42 complaints, while Kogan (35 complaints), Apple (33), and Android Enjoyed (26), rounded out the top four.
Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said the register helps consumers get the best bang for their buck by giving them the information they need to make more informed choices on where to spend their hard-earned cash.
“The Complaints Register empowers NSW consumers while incentivising businesses to learn from complaints and pull their socks up for future customers,” Mr Kean said.
“Any business that appears on the list is also assigned a case manager from Fair Trading to help guide them on improving their complaint handling procedures.”
After taking out the top spot four months running, Fair Trading is investigating appropriate enforcement action against online electronic store Android Enjoyed.
“If companies continually put their own interests above those of consumers, then I will ensure Fair Trading explores all legal options against them,” Mr Kean said.
“Fair Trading has multiple enforcement options including penalties of up to $1.1 million for corporations and $220,000 for individuals for misleading consumers.”
The June register also saw a spike in complaints against companies in the home building and real estate industries with LJ Hooker, Ray White, McDonald Jones Homes and Masterton Homes all appearing on the list.
Fair Trading handles around 50,000 complaints every year, with the Complaints Register listing traders that are the subject of 10 or more complaints to Fair Trading in a calendar month.
For more information about the register, as well as general consumer rights, go to fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or call 13 32 20.